No fatalities

Pilot Diverts Due to Engine Roughness Before Ditching in Atlantic (N75033)

Atlantic Ocean, AO, US

On June 30, 1988, a Piper PA-32R-300 (registration N75033) operated by Kelly, Steven K. was involved in an aviation accident near Atlantic Ocean, AO. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced engine roughness and subsequent power loss while en route, leading to a ditching in the Atlantic Ocean. The aircraft sank, but the pilot and passenger were rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard.

What happened

The pilot reported that the engine began running roughly during flight. Deciding to divert to an alternate airport located 15 miles away, the pilot continued en route. During this phase of the flight, a clanking noise was heard, followed by oil spraying onto the windshield. The engine subsequently lost all power. The aircraft was ditched in the Atlantic Ocean and sank. The pilot and passenger were rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard.

The investigation

The aircraft was not recovered from the water.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jun 1988 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Atlantic Ocean, AO?

A pilot experienced engine roughness and subsequent power loss while en route, leading to a ditching in the Atlantic Ocean. The aircraft sank, but the pilot and passenger were rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Jun 1988 Piper PA-32R-300 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jun 1988 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N75033, operated by Kelly, Steven K., at Atlantic Ocean, AO.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26033. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.